Artist's Bluff Lookout — Attraction in Franconia

Absolutely loved this lookout! I went in mid October the day before Columbus Day & it was beautiful. I got there early in the morning (before 6:30AM) & there was people, but it was manageable. By the time I left though, (closer to 9AM) it was starting to get crowded with people. It was freezing cold up there, so please make sure to be bundled up & wear proper hiking boots. It’s a short but steep hike. There are a lot of rocks & it can be rough. You can easily fall if you don’t watch where you’re going.

there are two ways to get to the lookout. One is found in a parking lot, while the shorter way is beside the highway, which are shown in the...

Perfect short hike with huge payoff. The loop is under a mile, moderately steep in a few spots with some roots and rock steps, but totally manageable with sturdy shoes. The overlook of Echo Lake and Cannon Mountain is stunning—one of the best vistas in Franconia Notch for the time invested. We went late afternoon and caught gorgeous light; sunrise/sunset would be incredible. Trail is well marked, a few scrambly bits near the bluff—watch little kids/dogs there. Parking at Cannon Mountain (Lot 1) worked well; expect crowds on weekends, so arrive early. Bring water, bug spray in summer, and be mindful of the cliff...

Don't come here when snow covered! Don't come here in the winter when it's icy unless you have good hiking gear, and anti-slip facilities. The path down the mountain is so slippery that you won't be able to keep walking upright much of the time, and may need to slide down on your butt a little bit. It is very dangerous and the views are not as good as in the fall or summer. But all in all, this place is very nice and has a high point where you can see the whole cannon mountain and the ski resort, as well as the highway below. But remember, don't go up the mountain in winter when it's snowing and freezing!!!...